what to do??

I just got an email from work saying that we have our 2007 Company Kick-off on Jan. 2nd. At that point Im not even sure I will be on soft foods...and it will take me much longer to eat than everyone else. I have no idea to plan for this. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Courtney

Hello Courtney, one thing I've noticed is people don't really pay attention to what you eat, so you'll be able to pick and chose. As far as the time it takes, at that stage of the game, you will be eating just a few bites and be done, and that will probably be about the time everyone else is finished. I know you're probably thinking how can I eat the whole plate, but don't forget, you won't be!! This will be fun for you to venture out and use your new pouch in a not so controlled situation. Go for it!! Just remember to chew chew chew, eat slowly, don't drink with eating, and as I always say, don't take that last 'belch bite'!! love donna

Donna, Thank you so much for your encouragement and advice. Its amazing how much we learn through this jouney. Take Care, Courtney

Courtney- I'm with Donna. Go and have a good time. I've gone out to eat several times since surgery and 9 out of 10 times people don't even notice I've ordered a smaller portion or only an appetizer. And since the portions at most places are so huge taking home a doggie bag is fairly common. You'll do great. If someone does say something be sure you have a plan for how to respond if you get flustered easily. Christina S

Christina, Thank you, this will def be interesting. Courtney

It sucks knowing there will be a big layout of food that you can't eat it. That still KILLS me. ( I get especially mad when I see all the desserts !!) I try to remind myself that nothing tastes as good as thin feels. Go for the social reasons and drink your water..maybe there will be something there you can eat..but be careful because you will be so early in the game things may not sit well with you. That happened with me ALOT. But I had a stricture also... Just go and strut your stuff !! You are such a beautiful girl !!! Dana

Dana, aww, thank you for the compliment. And you're right..nothing tastes as good as thin feels. I will remember that forever. Thank you so much, Courtney

Courtney Donna hit it right on with her reply. I say plan on going and having a great time, although I am banded I have the same thing when I go out to eat with my buddies, I usually just order something small and eat a little slower but no one has ever said or acted like it was a problem. You will be fine and what a way to kick off the new year with friends enjoying a nice dinner. It is a whole new way of living now for all of us we have to just take it in stride, enjoy it and remember we are way better off now. God Bless you and Good Luck with your new beginning. Keith

Keith, You're exactly right, I am so much better off! Thank you for reminding me of that Thanks again, Courtney

Go, you'll do fine. Most people neer notice what I eat anymore, nor do they care. I do sometimes get weird looks by waitresses when I tell them I need a box when I order my food (lol). BTW, I don't even have a desire to eat desserts anymore, except for chocolate brownies. My weakness. Most of the time, one bite is enough.